WASHINGTON, DC, USA — President-elect Donald Trump announced Saturday, November 30, 2024, his nomination of Charles Kushner, a prominent real estate developer and the father of Trump’s son-in-law Jared Kushner, as the U.S. Ambassador to France in his upcoming administration.
“Charlie is the Founder & Chairman of Kushner Companies, one of the largest & most successful privately held Real Estate firms in the Nation,” Trump wrote on Truth Social.
“Together, we will strengthen America’s partnership with France, our oldest Ally, & one of our greatest!”
A Controversial Past
Kushner’s nomination comes with significant controversy.
In 2005, he pled guilty to 16 federal charges, including tax evasion, retaliating against a federal witness, and making false statements to the Federal Election Commission.
He served 14 months in federal prison and an additional six months in a halfway house.
In 2020, Trump pardoned Kushner during his presidency, a decision that drew criticism from ethics watchdogs and political opponents.
Despite these legal troubles, Kushner has maintained a prominent role in business and philanthropy, leading Kushner Companies, a major real estate firm.
Family Connections and Diplomacy
The nomination of Kushner underscores the close ties between Trump and his family’s extended network.
Jared Kushner, Charles’ son and Trump’s son-in-law, served as a senior advisor in the first Trump administration but recently announced that he would not join the president-elect’s team for his second term.
Next Steps
Kushner’s appointment must be confirmed by the Senate, a process likely to draw scrutiny given his criminal history and Trump’s pardon.
However, the president-elect’s close relationship with his party’s leadership may bolster Kushner’s chances.
If confirmed, Kushner will play a key role in managing U.S.-France relations, which have faced strains in recent years over trade and defence policies.
Trump’s announcement signals a desire to prioritise the transatlantic alliance with France, a country he described as “one of our greatest allies.”
The nomination reflects Trump’s continued reliance on trusted allies and family figures as he builds his administration for his return to the White House in January.
